Solar power and electric vehicles (EVs) are a match made in heaven. Rooftop solar power systems generate solar energy to power your home. This solar power can also be used to charge your EV, making your already efficient vehicle even more efficient. Charging your EV with solar-generated electricity can help you eliminate fuel costs.
In this article, we’ll discuss the rise in EVs and solar panels and the advantages of Florida residents pairing the two.
Rise in EV and Solar Panels
The synergy between solar energy and electric vehicles embodies a positive step towards a sustainable future. The intersection of these two technologies is a game-changer for the efforts towards combating climate change. According to the International Energy Agency, the total fleet of EVs is expected to grow to about 240 million by 2030.
The amount of electricity required to charge these electric vehicles will be 640TWh by 2030. This introduces a ripe opportunity for electric vehicles to be one of the largest buyers of electricity by 2030. Due to this trend, many Florida residents are switching to solar energy to meet their household energy needs and power their EVs.
3 Benefits of Pairing EVs With Solar Panels
Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions
When you charge your electric vehicle with solar power, you reduce your dependence on non-renewable energy sources such as natural gas and coal. Solar energy systems produce clean energy from the sun, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By minimizing reliance on fossil fuels, solar-powered EV charging systems help fight climate change and conserve natural resources.
Provides Power During Storms
Solar-powered EV chargers can work independently from the grid, promoting resilience during power outages, emergencies, or natural disasters. Access to solar energy allows Florida homeowners to get uninterrupted electricity to charge their EVs even when grid power is down.
Leads to a Negative Electric Bill
By charging your electric vehicle using electricity from your solar panels, you no longer need to pay your local electricity provider to fill your tank. This could help save hundreds of dollars annually. And if you have already paid off your solar system, you will be charging your EV for free, leading to a negative electric bill.
Ways Your EV Can Be Powered by Solar Panels
Your EV could be solar-powered in the following ways:
Solar-Powered Charging Station
Home solar-powered charging stations are becoming increasingly popular. While investing in a solar-powered EV charging station can be expensive, it offers a return on investment in the long run.
Rooftop Solar
Traditional rooftop solar panels provide energy for your household needs and can also be used to charge your electric vehicle. These solar systems, whether they have a battery to provide backup power, can be used to power your EV when you generate more energy than you need for your home consumption.
Reap the Benefits of EV and Solar Panels With Solar Optimum
Powering your EV using your solar panels can help you save a lot of money in energy bills and contribute to fighting climate change. At Solar Optimum, we’ve assisted countless Florida homeowners in installing solar systems. If you are interested in learning about how to use your solar panel system to power your EV, contact us today.